Uncertainty is not something that anyone loves. In fact, according to a HuffPost article, people are more likely to feel stress and anxiety about the possibility of a negative experience rather than the certainty of it.
For children, uncertainty has become a part of everyday life during the pandemic. If you are considering a divorce during these challenging times, it’s important to realize that you can teach your children to cope with the uncertainty that they may be facing. It can be difficult for children to imagine their life after your divorce, but our Tampa divorce attorney believes that these tips can help your children develop the skills they need to carry on in the face of adversity.
Here is how you can raise resilient children during unprecedented times:
Talk About What Uncertainty Feels Like
Uncertainty never feels good, but it manifests itself in various ways — especially in children. One child who is feeling anxious about the uncertainty that lies ahead may not be able to sleep as well, while another may seem more irritable than normal. Whether your child is faced with another few months of virtual school or they are dealing with the news that you will be seeking a divorce, it’s important to talk with your child about what uncertainty feels like so they have a better understanding of why they feel the way that they do.
Provide Your Children with Honest, Age-Appropriate Information
Lying to your children in the hopes of protecting them will actually do more damage in the long-term. While you may not want to describe in-detail some of the most negative aspects of the current situation, you should provide them with honest and upfront information that they can handle. Remember that it’s also okay to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll be here to support you,” when you cannot provide them with a clear and concise answer about what the future holds.
Discover Stress-Relieving Activities Together
In addition to helping your children understand their feelings, you can show them how to reduce the stress they are feeling. Together, you can enjoy a yoga session or go for a hike on a nearby trail. Giving them a coping mechanism will teach your children to identify their triggers and actively work to minimize those feelings.
While no one wants their children to experience sadness, fear or frustration, it’s important to remember that these experiences are part of life. By raising resilient children who know how to cope with the feelings that come along with uncertainty, you are providing your children with valuable skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
For more information on pursuing a divorce in Florida during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, contact a Tampa divorce attorney at our family law firm today.
If you have questions regarding Tampa family law, or are unaware as to the terms and conditions in, talk to, and retain, a family law attorney who can help. Contact Damien McKinney of The McKinney Law Group to discuss your case further. He can be reached by phone at 813-906-0048 or by e-mail at [email protected]